Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has set his sights on winning the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, buoyed by Nigeria’s impressive performance at AFCON 2025 in Morocco.
Chelle led the Super Eagles to a third-place finish, with the three-time African champions drawing plaudits for their attacking flair. Nigeria scored a tournament-high 14 goals and remained defensively solid, conceding no goals from open play in the knockout stages.
With the next AFCON set to be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, Chelle believes the Super Eagles will return stronger and ready to challenge for the title.
Reflecting on the campaign after the tournament, the coach spoke candidly about the emotional journey and his hunger to go one step further next time.
“It’s pride. It’s a relief. I went to see my mom and dad and told them I was coming back with the AFCON trophy. Mom, Dad, sorry, I’m only coming back with third place, but that’s already exceptional for me,” Chelle said.
He also commended the organisation of the tournament and the unity within his squad.
“Thank you to this country for organising this AFCON so well. I had a lot of fun with my team. It was great. Thank you. It was extraordinary,” he added.
Looking ahead, Chelle made his ambitions clear.
“We’ll meet again in two years, and God willing, I’ll bring that trophy home.”
